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George Washington House

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George Washington House (Barbados)

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The George Washington House in Bridgetown holds the unique distinction of being the only place George Washington ever lived outside of the present-day United States. In 1751, a 19-year-old Washington spent six weeks at this estate, then known as Bush Hill House, while accompanying his half-brother Lawrence, who was seeking a cure for tuberculosis in the island’s tropical climate. Today, the beautifully restored colonial plantation house serves as a museum, offering a detailed look into 18th-century life in Barbados. The site features period furnishings and informative exhibits that discuss both Washington's stay and the harsh reality of slavery that underpinned the island's economy. Visitors can explore the main house, the kitchen buildings, and the fascinating network of underground tunnels. This journey proved pivotal for Washington, as it was his only international trip and provided him with valuable exposure to British military fortifications at the nearby Garrison, which later influenced his revolutionary career.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272828282828282827
Rain mm34191928527274959813210749

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
George Washington House is a museum that can be visited inside. Entry is usually subject to a fee, and opening hours are typically on weekdays and Saturdays. Allow about one hour to tour the historic rooms.
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Typical hours
Museums in Barbados usually open around 9:00 am and close in the afternoon. Sundays or public holidays may see closures. Inquire ahead about special guided tours.
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Photography
Photography inside the house is usually allowed without flash. Outside, you can take pictures freely. Avoid using tripods indoors.
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Time needed
Allow about one to one and a half hours for visiting the house. If you join a guided tour, the visit may take longer.
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Combine with
The house is located in Bridgetown, so it pairs well with other historic sites like St. Michael's Cathedral. A walk through the old town is also recommended.
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Getting there
The museum is easily reachable by car or taxi. Parking is available nearby but not directly at the house. Public buses stop in the area.
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Insider tip
Ask at the entrance about an audio guide to learn more about Washington's stay. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Geography

Coordinates
13.08060, -59.60500

Facts

  • George Washington stayed at this location for six weeks in 1751.
  • He accompanied his brother Lawrence, who was seeking a cure for tuberculosis.
  • The building was historically known as the Bush Hill House.
  • It is a key part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bridgetown.
  • The house was officially reopened as a heritage museum in 2007.
  • Washington contracted smallpox during this stay, granting him future immunity.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Barbados Museum & Historical SocietyBarbados Museum & Historical Society<1 km · NExplore →
Bridgetown Jewish CemeteryBridgetown Jewish Cemetery2 km · SEExplore →
Ilaro CourtIlaro Court2 km · NEExplore →
Graeme Hall Nature SanctuaryGraeme Hall Nature Sanctuary2 km · NExplore →
Green HillGreen Hill3 km · EExplore →
Pine Hill DairyPine Hill Dairy3 km · NExplore →
Hothersal TurningHothersal Turning4 km · NEExplore →
Cave HillCave Hill4 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town George Washington House (3)

Garrison Savannah Racetrack📍 landmark

The Garrison Savannah Racetrack is a horse racing track in Bridgetown, Barbados.

George Washington House (Barbados)📍 landmark

George Washington House is a historic building in Bridgetown, visited by Washington.

Saint Ann's Fort📍 landmark

Saint Ann's Fort is a historic fortification in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Did George Washington really stay here?
Yes, he spent six weeks here in 1751; it was his only trip outside of colonial America.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, there are informative tours of the house and the underground tunnels.
What are the opening hours?
Open Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:30.
Is the house suitable for children?
Yes, the interactive exhibits and tunnels are exciting for families.
Where is the house located?
It is located within the Garrison historic area, south of Bridgetown.
George Washington House: where is it located?
George Washington House is located in Barbados.
George Washington House: what is there to see?
Highlights include Garrison Savannah Racetrack, George Washington House (Barbados), Saint Ann's Fort.
George Washington House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
George Washington House: why is it worth visiting?
The George Washington House in Bridgetown holds the unique distinction of being the only place George Washington ever lived outside of the present-day United States.
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